A fabulous in-town hotel boutique

The brand new Hotel Cacao was our first destination, a boutique five-star property situated bang in the middle of Playa del Carmen’s main pedestrianised strip. Though the street outside is buzzy, the hotel itself is incredibly tranquil, thanks in part to the main atrium’s waterfall wall and turtle-dwelling lily pond.

After half a day of travel from New York, my friend and I could not have been more delighted with our room. Generously-sized with two double beds, the wide window at one end overlooked a quiet side street, while the other end boasted a spacious bathroom with twin sinks, a rain shower and Missoni bath products.

The real highlight at Hotel Cacao though, is the rooftop infinity pool. To our joy, the space was not overcrowded when we pitched up at 2pm and we parked our exhausted selves on two plush sun loungers for the rest of the afternoon. There were plenty of parasols for fair-skinned guests and the staff were attentive and charming as they ferried over chilled wine and fresher-than-fresh ceviche. ‘Never. Leaving,’ we repeated to each other several times over.

Cacao’s own restaurant, Nibs, is considered one of the finest dining spots in town, so we were eager to check it out. Dinner can be enjoyed downstairs in the main restaurant, adjoining the lobby area, or – what appears to be the more popular option – at the rooftop bar by the pool.

Killer cocktails: We were sold several times over on the margaritas at Hotel Cacao’s rooftop bar

And what a dinner it is. It kicked off with a couple of killer margaritas and piping hot Yucatan ‘black bread’ which is cooked in plantain leaves and served in a paper bag. A series of impressive dishes ensued including plenty of lobster and a sensational chocolate-chili confection for dessert.

Hotel Cacao’s rooftop bar is fast becoming a scene and it was the perfect place for a post-dinner margarita.

We loved that the hotel’s location allowed us to check out other local bars and restaurants too, and is just a short walk to the beach. But you also have the option to not engage and simply recharge your batteries.

Hotel Cacao has a special promotion beginning in May, with rates starting at $184 (£121.54) per night including breakfast. For more information, visit Hotelcacao.com.mx